After major weight loss, a body lift addresses excess skin in a single transformative procedure, creating 360-degree improvement from abdomen to thighs. It's the final step that lets your body reflect the extraordinary effort you've already put in, relieving discomfort from skin folds and revealing the toned shape underneath.
What Is Body Lift?
A belt lipectomy removes loose skin and fat from the abdomen, flanks, lower back, hips, and outer thighs in a single procedure, creating a smoother, more toned contour. Unlike isolated operations, this circumferential contouring surgery provides comprehensive 360-degree improvement of the torso and upper legs.
It's particularly beneficial after massive weight loss, alleviating skin irritation and mobility restrictions whilst dramatically improving body shape. Our partner surgeons use advanced techniques to deliver exceptional results.
Common Concerns Body Lift Can Address
- Excess hanging skin around the abdomen, flanks, and lower back following major weight loss
- Sagging skin on the buttocks and outer thighs affecting body shape and clothing fit
- Skin irritation, rashes, or infections in skin folds caused by redundant tissue
- Loss of body confidence and difficulty finding properly fitting clothing despite weight loss achievement
Are You a Good Candidate?
- Individuals who have maintained a stable weight for at least 6–12 months following significant weight loss
- Non-smokers or those willing to quit smoking at least 6 weeks before and after surgery
- Realistic expectations about scarring and understanding that results improve over 12–18 months
Techniques & Options
After major weight loss, loose skin rarely affects just one area. Your surgeon will assess where tissue hangs most, how much needs removing, and whether the upper body, lower body, or both require attention to plan a safe, effective sequence. The procedure can address everything from an isolated lower-torso correction to a staged, head-to-knee transformation.
There are three main approaches:
Lower Body Lift (Belt Lipectomy)
The most comprehensive approach, with an incision around the waistline removing excess skin from the entire lower torso. Combines tummy tuck, lateral thigh lift, and buttock lift in one procedure.
- 360-degree improvement of the lower body contour
- Combines tummy tuck, lateral thigh lift, and buttock lift in one procedure
- Incision positioned to be concealed beneath underwear and swimwear
- Ideal for patients with significant skin laxity following massive weight loss
Upper Body Lift
Focuses on the upper torso, addressing loose skin on the breasts, back, and upper arms. Often staged 3–6 months after a lower body lift for complete transformation.
- Removes excess skin from the back, sides of the chest, and upper torso
- Can include breast lift or reduction and arm lift (brachioplasty)
- Improves bra bulging and back rolls
- Typically performed 3–6 months after lower body lift to reduce surgical risks
Medial Thigh Lift Component
An inner thigh lift added to the body lift procedure, with incisions in the groin crease extending along the inner thigh. Best suited for patients with moderate to severe inner thigh laxity.
- Addresses skin sagging on the inner thighs that lower body lift alone cannot correct
- Reduces chafing and improves thigh gap
- Requires additional incisions but provides more comprehensive lower body results
- Best suited for patients with moderate to severe inner thigh laxity
Recovery Timeline
Days 1–3
You'll remain in hospital with significant swelling, bruising, and discomfort, all normal for this extensive procedure. Short supervised walks promote circulation. Your care coordinator will check in daily to monitor recovery.
Week 1–2
Swelling and bruising begin to subside as drains are removed. Light walking continues and most patients can manage self-care tasks. You'll feel progressively more comfortable each day.
Weeks 3–6
You'll gradually regain mobility and energy as your new body contour starts to emerge. Most patients return to desk-based work around week 4–6. Avoid heavy lifting during this period.
Months 2–12
By 8 weeks, most normal activities resume including moderate exercise. Full results become apparent after 12–18 months as tissues settle, scars fade, and your final shape is revealed.
What to Expect
Safety & Risks
Body lift is a safe procedure when performed by an experienced surgeon, but like all major surgeries, it carries some risks.
- Wound separation or delayed healing
- Seroma or haematoma
- Skin necrosis (rare)
- Asymmetry or contour irregularities
- Blood clots (rare)
- Unfavourable scarring
As one of the most extensive contouring procedures available, a body lift carries a higher cumulative risk than isolated operations. Your surgeon will explain how staged planning, blood-loss monitoring, and deep vein thrombosis prevention measures are tailored to protect you throughout this transformative surgery.
How Much Does Body Lift Cost in Thailand?
Our pricing is transparent and all-inclusive — your quote covers everything from surgeon fees to hospital stay.
Body Lift
All-inclusive surgical package- Board-certified surgeon fee
- Anaesthesia & operating theatre
- Hospital stay & nursing care
- Post-operative medications
- Follow-up appointments
- Dedicated care coordinator
Common Questions About Body Lift
Everything you need to know before your procedure
Dr. Pichaya Suwanprasert
MEDICALLY REVIEWEDDr. Pichaya Suwanprasert
MEDICALLY REVIEWEDPlastic Surgeon · Bangkok
Last reviewed: February 18, 2026
Medical References
Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Individual results, recovery times, and suitability vary. Always consult a qualified surgeon before making decisions about treatment.
What's Included
- Board-certified surgeon fee
- Anaesthesia & operating theatre
- Hospital stay & nursing care
- Post-operative medications
- Follow-up appointments
- Dedicated care coordinator
Ready to Get Started?
Speak with our care coordinators for a free, no-obligation consultation and personalised quote.
Speak to Our Team
